Performance management is, by its very nature, a contentious and emotionally charged topic. Because the lines between management and appraisal are often blurred, performance management tends to get cast in a harsh and negative light, creating anxiety and distrust that defeats the object. Performance management: A contemporary South African perspective examines the practice of performance management in the modern South African workplace and how to balance the positive with its more challenging negative facets. Performance management: A contemporary South African perspective explores various aspects of performance management systems and processes. It highlights best practice and innovative ideas for implementation that will enable managers, employees and teams to achieve success and improve results. Examples and real-life scenarios provide practical guidelines and applications.